Algae extract in acne & skin care

A perfect all-rounder…

Algae extract is a natural (herbal) botanical extract that is obtained from a variety of natural resources especially seaweed, fungi and other mushrooms. With its powerful ability to retain moisture, this natural extract keeps skin moisturized while providing increased protection against harmful irritants and substances in acne.

General skin benefits of algae extract

Skin experts, naturists and even dermatologists now consider algae extract as a potent, active substance that can be used to normalize the skin’s moisture content and provide suppleness to the epidermis (upper most layer of the skin).

It is also rich in iodine, which is diffused through the skin to stimulate the metabolic processes, resulting in cellulite reduction and slimming.

How algae extract works?

It is believed that algae extract works by helping skin maintain its youthful appearance by inhibiting the formation of the enzyme collagenase, which causes the degradation of collagen. Therefore, it actually prevents further breakdown of collagen which naturally leads to increased and optimal quantities of collagen in your skin.

What is collagen?

Collagens are important proteins for the skin, as they are essential for structure and function of the extracellular matrix in the dermis (the middle layer of your skin). Thinner and wrinkled skin, the typical sign of normal aging, or sometimes acne, is the consequence of reduced collagen.

Special benefits of algae extract in acne

It improves skin immune system, free radical scavenger, skin restructuring, wrinkle reduction and tissue renewal. It also provides protective film.

·         Pure algae extracts also work to inhibit skin irritation and reduce oxidative stress to skin cells.

·         It also hydrates, conditions and helps normalize moisture content in the skin.

·         It also promotes skin clarity, prevents the appearance of spots and discoloration in acne.

Additional bonus of using algae extract

Algae extract aids in diminishing the visible signs of aging, such as lines and wrinkles. Helps build skin’s collagen network, increase firmness and stimulate cell renewal. Its naturally fine colloidal particles and absorbent properties significantly enhance its deep cleansing.

Chamomile

A clear-cut choice in acne

Introduction & background

The use of chamomile as a medicinal plant dates back to ancient Greece and Rome. The name "chamomile" comes from two Greek words meaning “ground apple” for its apple-like smell.

The ancient Egyptians considered the herb a sacred gift from the sun god, and used it to alleviate fever and sun stroke. In the sixth century, it was used to treat insomnia, back pain, neuralgia, rheumatism, skin conditions, indigestion, flatulence, headaches, and gout. In Europe it is considered a “cure all”, and in Germany it is referred to as “alles zutraut”, meaning “capable of anything.

The unique, innovative skin & acne-related benefits of chamomile

Chamomile is used on the skin for many different problems including acne, poison ivy, chicken pox, diaper rash and other kinds of rashes.

It is also used for eczema, hemorrhoids, and cuts and scrapes. The following benefits will help you understand the importance of use of chamomile on skin:

• Chamomile is considered as cooling, soothing and refreshing agent for skin.
• Acting as an emollient, it provides valuable moisture to the skin.
• Its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties give it the ability to neutralize skin irritations, making it ideal for sensitive skin suffering from pimples, papules, pustules, blackheads or whiteheads in acne.

Quite interestingly, many skin afflictions (including acne) such as acne have a strong emotional component (emotional stress). Chamomile provides emotional calming and balance as well.

Is acne curable or controllable?

What options do you have on the table…

Acne is one of the most frequently occurring skin disorders that can affect people of all races, genders and ages. With millions of people affected with acne worldwide each year, the most important questions for the acne sufferers are “Can I successfully treat this problem or will I ever be able to get rid of acne completely?”

The good news, however, is that while acne is still considered “medically incurable”, there are some good natural ways of “controlling acne permanently and completely”. The following review focuses on different treatment options available for those who suffer from acne.

Medical therapy

Depending on the severity and type of acne you may be prescribed a medicine to be applied topically, taken orally, or both. Some of these medicines commonly include:

1-    Topical retinoids for treating comedones (blackheads). However, they have limited benefit for inflammatory lesions such as pustules or cysts.

2-    Topical antimicrobials (Benzoyl peroxide) help to reduce skin bacteria and provide good results in mild acne (pustules/pimples) but can be irritating to the skin.

3-    Antibiotic therapy is generally done in moderate to severe acne.  Topical antibiotics (e.g. Cleocin-T, Benzamycin) are often helpful for mild cases of acne.  Oral antibiotics (tetracycline, erythromycin) have been used for years but have various side effects.

Surgery

If you have scarring, your dermatologist may suggest surgery to help heal acne lesions and remove scarring. A laser can reshape scar tissue and reduce redness. Dermabrasion is a type of surgery that can remove surface scars and reduce the depth of deep scars. Another option is to transfer fat from one part of the body to the face. In some cases, a single treatment can help scarring. But for lasting results, several are often needed.

Can more serious forms of acne be treated?

For more serious forms of acne that do not respond to OTCs or natural treatments, you should work with your doctor to find the best treatment.

All in all, while it is true that there has been no “medical cure” available for acne to date, various other options are rapidly emerging in the market with promising results. If you want to try one of such options, you must do your own research to find what will suit you the best.